Marius describes himself first as a husband and father. However, to many people in Aberdeen, he is also the man behind the mask – running in a variety of costumes, from dinosaurs to Minions, through the city’s streets to raise money for mental health and cancer support.

A Movement Towards Hope, Change and Connections

Miles of Smiles first took shape in 2021, a year that pushed Marius to rethink how he looked after his wellbeing and how he stayed connected to others during a time of isolation and uncertainty.

As the pressures of the pandemic intensified, he found himself juggling work, family life and the responsibility of supporting those around him.

“When the pandemic hit, running started as a way to cope and to process everything” he explains. “Each mile helped clear my head and gave me the space to breathe again.

“Over time, I realised I wasn’t just running away from my struggles, I was running towards something – towards hope, towards change, towards connections.”

That commitment – one step, one conversation, one act of kindness at a time – became the foundation for the Miles of Smiles fundraising challenge.

Running: Therapy in Motion

Marius has always been active but running took on a new purpose during this period of healing.

“Running is therapy in motion for me,” he says. “It gives me energy and faith in people.”

That sense of joy and connection is why Marius is often seen running in full costume – from dinosaurs to superheroes to oversized Minions.

“It turns something serious, like talking about mental health and cancer, into something more approachable,” he explains. “If someone laughs, waves or asks why I’m running in a seven-foot dinosaur suit, I’ve already broken down a barrier.”

Spirit of Togetherness in Aberdeen

Marius’ first big challenge in 2021 saw him run more than 3,000 kilometres and raise over £7,000 for SAMH. Despite the distance he covered, what resonated with Marius the most were the people of Aberdeen.

People have offered encouragement, water, high-fives and plenty of smiles. Emergency crews flash their lights when they pass him, parents and children stop to wave and strangers show kindness by clapping and cheering him on.

“Whether it’s small local groups, charities or individuals helping one another, there’s a spirit of togetherness that is impossible to fake here in berdeen,” Marius says.

“It’s not about grand gestures, it’s about everyday kindness that builds towards something extraordinary.”

For this years’ challenge, Marius is going bigger and bolder. Starting back in June 2025, he will run, walk and cycle 7,000 kilometres by 31st December 2026 in order to raise money for SAMH and Clan Cancer Support.

Miles of Smiles 2025: Highlights So Far

(as of 23/11/2025)

• 1,631 kilometres covered
• Over £2,400 raised (plus £7,000 raised for SAMH in 2021)
• 139 cold showers & 34 cold dips completed
• Countless of smiles shared across Scotland

Finding Purpose Through Pain

Committing to the weekly pledge of running 50 kilometres, taking a 2 minute cold shower and completing a 5-10 minute ice bath comes with its own struggles.

“I would say the toughest battles are often invisible, and with balancing work and family life this challenge can be exhausting at times,” he says.

Every time he considers slowing down, Marius remembers why he started.

“After suffering three tragic miscarriages, I’m running for our baby angels. I’m running for anyone who feels they can’t keep going, those who’ve lost hope and the people who need one more reason to smile.”

“That reminder keeps me moving, even when my mind wants to stop.”

Messages from supporters keep him motivated: “When times are tough, I read back through what people have written. It reminds me that we are in this together. That’s what community is all about – showing up and being there for each other.”

A True Community Effort

Marius hopes Miles of Smiles will continue expanding across Scotland, reaching people from all walks of life.

“I want to keep supporting anyone who’s ever struggled with your mental health or faced cancer in any form. This is more than just a running challenge, it’s a true community effort.”

His goal is simple: to keep spreading hope, kindness and connection through movement.

How to Support Miles of Smiles

Marius welcomes support in any form, whether it’s conversations, waves, donations or simply sharing Miles of Smiles further.

“I couldn’t do this challenge without the people of Aberdeen,” he says. “Most of the support I get often comes from strangers who don’t know me or the cause. However, they still show me kindness – that means the world.

“Aberdeen’s kindness keeps me going. Whether it’s a smile, a message or a donation, it all helps raise awareness and support the amazing work of SAMH and Clan Cancer Support.”

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You can follow Marius on his socials where he shares updates, progress and messages of encouragement:

• Facebook / LinkedIn – Marius Coste
• Instagram – @milesofsmilesrun
• TikTok – @smilesrunner
• Twitter / X – @SmilesRunner

Donations can be made at www.justgiving.com/page/hopeovercancer (Clan Cancer Support) and www.justgiving.com/page/frompaintopurpose (SAMH).

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This article originally appeared in the December 2025 edition of ACVO News, our free monthly digital magazine for and from the the third sector in Aberdeen. Read the current and past editions, and sign up to our mailing list, at acvo.org.uk/acvo-news